The ‘Queen of Hill stations’ indeed. There are plenty of things to do in Ooty, some of which we’re going to cover below. The best time to visit Ooty is during Summer, which runs from March to June. The climate is cool without being nippy, and several tourism hotspots are open during this time. A little rain can also be expected, which only adds to the enchantment.
If you’re doubtful about how to reach Ooty, especially if you’re driving in from another state, it will be best to mark your map and app before you vroom into Tamil Nadu. This is because there are plenty of routes to get here, and you need to find the simplest one for you, or you may end up driving for hours. Several one-way roads are in effect these days.
1. Ooty Lake
A stop at this outstanding place on the Ooty Tourism roster will soon blossom into an extended stay. From local street cuisine to the picturesque sights and sounds that accompany a long boat ride, Ooty Lake has this and more to offer you. Nestled in the lush Nilgiris, the best time to visit Ooty Lake is all year round. But if you want crowds, head over during peak season (summertime).
Plenty of noteworthy restaurants in Ooty are just a stone’s throw away from the lake. Bird-watching is treated as a legitimate sport here, what with so many alighting and taking off in different seasons. The naturally growing Eucalyptus trees are admirable. A toy train makes its rail trip around the lake and is great for kids. The lake has been featured in many a memorable Indian movies too.
2. Ooty Rose Garden
An exemplary lesson in rose growing and maintenance, the climate and trained professionals who raise these remarkable roses are both deserving of praise for their part in nurturing this splendid location in Ooty. Alternative names for this place to visit in Ooty are Centenary Rose Park, Nootrandu Roja Poonga, and Jayalalithaa Rose Garden.
The fragrance of the place alone will be like stepping into a fairy tale. Situated on Ooty’s Elk Hill slopes, the rose garden enjoys prime tourism value. It was established in 1995 and has only grown in popularity. The best time to visit Ooty Rose Garden is during summertime when all the florals are in full bloom. You can enjoy picnics inside the park, in select areas of course. Kindly do not litter, take a bag with you to store any garbage, which you can then dispose of in bins when you find them.
3. Dodabetta Peak
Roughly translated, it means ‘Big Peak’. This is still one of the most highly recommended places to visit by Club Mahindra resorts in Ooty. The resort has programs and contacts to get you to the peak and back. At 8,650 feet above sea level, Dodabetta is the highest of its kind in the Nilgiris hill range. Trekking is definitely on the books here. You can see as far as Mysore from the summit. The best time to visit Ooty’s Dodabetta is all year round. Just make sure you come aptly dressed based on the season. Picturesque is an understatement where this peak is concerned. You truly need to see it and experience it to believe it.
